Journal of Contemporary Philosophical and Anthropological Studies

Cartesian Dualism: Bridging Descartes’ Mind-Body Dichotomy to Contemporary Psychology and Mental Health

2025-04-10T02:14:49-05:00

René Descartes’ Cartesian dualism, which separates the mind (res cogitans) and body (res extensa) into two distinct substances, has been a foundational concept in Western philosophy. This dualistic framework has significantly influenced the development of modern psychology and approaches to mental health. However, as contemporary psychology shifts towards more integrative and biopsychosocial models, questions arise regarding the continued relevance of Descartes’ dichotomy. This study explores the philosophical underpinnings of Cartesian dualism and critically examines its influence on the historical and current understanding of mental processes and disorders. By analyzing key developments in psychological theory and mental health practice, the research investigates how Cartesian thinking persists in certain models and is rejected or reinterpreted in others. Additionally, the study evaluates the practical consequences of maintaining a dualistic mindset in therapeutic settings, particularly in cases where psychological and physiological symptoms intersect. The research proposes a framework that bridges classical philosophical insights with contemporary scientific understanding, aiming to promote a more holistic view of the human person in mental health discourse. Ultimately, this study contributes to the ongoing dialogue between philosophy and psychology, advocating for an approach that honors both the distinctiveness and interdependence of mind and body.

A Critical Examination of the Democratic Argument for Academic Paper Publication: The Issue of High Journal Publishing Fees

2025-02-11T13:41:56-06:00

With an eye toward the effects of journal publishing fees for fair access to scholarly communication, this paper critically investigates the democratic case for publishing academic papers in journals. The central focus of this study is the worry that high publication costs might prevent researchers from underfunded universities or economically deprived areas, thus sustaining disparities in knowledge distribution. The study shows a strong link between publication fees and authors’ socioeconomic level, suggesting that those from lower-income backgrounds encounter major obstacles to pub-lishing their studies. These circumstances highlight the need for fair access to scholarly literature in education since differences in publication chances can compromise research scope and restrict educational policy changes. This study’s wider ramifications point to the need for systematic changes in academic publishing policies and support more fair fee structures or other approaches that ad-vance diversity. This study adds significant new perspectives on how academic publishing might better meet the various needs of the worldwide research community, especially in fields directly affecting public health and welfare, by addressing the democratic ideals of access to knowledge.

Stages of Moral Development of the Major Heroines in the Selected Novels of Sidney Sheldon

2025-03-04T12:05:15-06:00

The representation of women in literature has long been influenced by patriarchal perspectives, often neglecting their moral experiences and ethical voices. Addressing this gap, the study explores the moral development of female protagonists in selected novels of Sidney Sheldon. The primary objective is to identify the stages of moral development and the distinct voices of the major heroines, using Carol Gilligan’s Feminist Care Ethics as a framework. Employing a descriptive qualitative research design, the study uses close reading and textual analysis to examine two novels: Are You Afraid of the Dark? and The Best Laid Plans. Findings reveal that the heroines progress through various stages of moral development, transitioning from self-interest to responsibility and self-sacrifice. The characters demonstrate interconnectedness, care, concern, and a strong sense of responsibility for others, ultimately embodying empowered women capable of ethical decision-making. The study highlights the complexity of female morality and contributes to broader discussions on gender and ethics in literary analysis.